1. Introduction
Monkey Chat ("Monkey Chat," "we," "us," or "our") operates the website and service at https://monkeychat.chat (the "Service"). This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have.
By creating an account or using Monkey Chat, you agree to this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please do not use the Service. Our Terms of Service also apply.
2. Information we collect
Account information. When you sign up, we collect your email address, password, and display name. Passwords are handled by our authentication provider (Firebase Authentication) and are not stored by Monkey Chat in plain text.
Profile and matching preferences. We collect the gender you select at signup and your preferred match preference (anyone, female, or male). We also store whether you have unlocked paid gender filters.
Payment information. If you purchase a gender-filter unlock, payment is processed by Stripe. We do not store full card numbers. Stripe may collect billing details according to its own privacy policy. We receive limited payment status information (such as that a purchase completed) so we can unlock features on your account.
Usage and technical data. We may collect approximate device and browser information, IP address, timestamps, match-queue activity, and similar diagnostics needed to operate matching, security, and reliability of the Service.
Local preferences. We store certain preferences on your device (for example, light/dark theme) using browser local storage.
Camera, microphone, and chat media. Video and audio chat use peer-to-peer WebRTC connections in your browser. Monkey Chat does not permanently record or store your live video or audio streams as part of normal Service operation. Signaling data used to establish calls may pass through our infrastructure (for example Firestore). Text chat messages may be processed through our systems while a session is active. Other users you match with can see and hear you during a live session; we cannot control what they capture on their own devices.
3. How we use information
We use the information we collect to:
- Create and manage your account
- Match you with other users based on your preferences
- Provide live video, audio, and text chat features
- Process purchases and unlock paid features
- Maintain security, prevent abuse, and enforce our Terms
- Improve reliability, performance, and user experience
- Respond to support requests and legal obligations
4. How we share information
We may share information with:
- Service providers that help us run Monkey Chat, including Firebase / Google (authentication and database) and Stripe (payments)
- Other users, limited to what is needed for a live match (for example your video/audio stream and any text you send during a session). We do not show your display name, email, or other account name to people you match with
- Authorities or advisors when required by law, to protect rights and safety, or in connection with a merger, acquisition, or asset sale
We do not sell your personal information.
5. Cookies and similar technologies
Monkey Chat uses essential browser storage and similar technologies for authentication sessions, theme preferences, and core Service functionality. Third-party providers (such as Firebase and Stripe) may also use cookies or similar technologies as described in their policies.
6. Data retention
We retain account and profile information while your account remains active and as needed to provide the Service, resolve disputes, enforce our agreements, and comply with legal requirements. Matching and session-related data may be kept for a shorter period needed for operations and abuse prevention. You may request account deletion by contacting us at support@monkeychat.chat.
7. Security
We use industry-standard safeguards appropriate to the nature of the Service, including encrypted transport (HTTPS) and provider-managed authentication. No method of transmission or storage is completely secure. Please use a strong unique password and avoid sharing sensitive personal details during chats.
8. Children's privacy
Monkey Chat is intended only for users who are at least 18 years old. We do not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under 18. If you believe a minor has created an account, contact us and we will take appropriate steps to delete the account and related information.
9. Your choices and rights
Depending on where you live, you may have rights to:
- Access or receive a copy of personal information we hold
- Correct inaccurate information
- Request deletion of your account or certain data
- Object to or restrict certain processing
To exercise these rights, email support@monkeychat.chat. You can also update match preferences in Settings and sign out at any time.
10. International users
Monkey Chat may be accessed from outside the United States. If you use the Service from another country, your information may be processed in the United States or other locations where our providers operate.
11. Third-party services
Our Service relies on third parties, including Firebase (Google) and Stripe. Their handling of data is governed by their own privacy policies. Links to third-party sites or services are not under our control.
12. Changes to this policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will post the revised version on this page and update the "Last updated" date. Continued use of Monkey Chat after changes become effective means you accept the updated policy.
13. Contact us
Questions about privacy? Contact Monkey Chat at support@monkeychat.chat.